Planning your year ahead requires knowing when official public holidays fall, especially if you’re coordinating work schedules, travel arrangements, or family gatherings. The Central African Republic observes 14 fixed national holidays annually, established under Decree 96-156 signed on May 14, 1996, along with two Islamic holidays that vary based on the lunar calendar. This comprehensive guide covers all confirmed nationwide public holidays in the Central African Republic for 2026, helping you plan effectively throughout the year.
Complete List of Public Holidays in Central African Republic 2026
Below is the authoritative table of all official public holidays observed across the Central African Republic in 2026. These dates apply nationwide and are recognized as non-working days for government offices, banks, and most businesses.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
| March 20 | Friday | Eid al-Fitr (Korité) |
| March 29 | Sunday | Barthelemy Boganda Day |
| April 6 | Monday | Easter Monday |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day |
| May 14 | Thursday | Ascension Day |
| May 25 | Monday | Whit Monday |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Eid al-Adha (Tabaski) |
| June 30 | Tuesday | General Prayer Day |
| August 13 | Thursday | Independence Day |
| August 15 | Saturday | Assumption Day |
| November 1 | Sunday | All Saints Day |
| December 1 | Tuesday | National Day |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day |
Understanding Central African Republic’s Holiday Calendar
The Central African Republic’s public holiday calendar reflects the nation’s diverse cultural and religious heritage. The country observes a blend of Christian holidays, Islamic celebrations, and secular national commemorations. Approximately 90% of the population identifies as Christian, with about 60% being Protestant, consequently Christian holidays feature prominently in the official calendar.
Meanwhile, the Muslim community is also honored with two important Islamic holidays: Eid al-Fitr (known locally as Korité) and Eid al-Adha (called Tabaski). These dates shift annually based on the Islamic lunar calendar and are subject to moon sighting confirmation. However, planning tools like Current Local Times Around the World can help you stay updated on exact timing across different regions.
Key Holidays and Their Significance
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Starting 2026 on a Thursday, New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the calendar year with family gatherings and celebrations throughout major cities like Bangui. This provides an excellent opportunity to set up your planning with tools like timer tools for the year ahead.
Barthelemy Boganda Day (March 29)
This solemn holiday honors Barthélemy Boganda, one of the nation’s founding fathers and leading national politicians. Boganda died tragically on March 29, 1959, when his aircraft exploded midair, just before independence. He remains a revered figure in Central African history.
Easter Monday (April 6)
Following Easter Sunday on April 5, Easter Monday is observed as a public holiday primarily by the Christian population, particularly Roman Catholics. This moveable feast creates a long weekend for many workers.
Labour Day (May 1)
Falling on a Friday in 2026, Labour Day creates a natural long weekend when combined with the regular Saturday and Sunday. This international workers’ holiday is celebrated across the Central African Republic with various events honoring the contributions of workers.
Independence Day (August 13)
The most significant national celebration, Independence Day commemorates the Central African Republic’s proclamation of independence from France on August 13, 1960. On the other hand, this day is marked by vibrant parades, traditional performances, and patriotic festivities, particularly in Bangui and other major cities.
National Day (December 1)
Falling on a Tuesday, National Day commemorates the anniversary of the Central African Republic becoming an autonomous territory within the French Community in 1958. Celebrations include sports festivals, speeches, parades, and boat races along the Ubangi River, with military officials and political leaders participating in the capital’s main parade.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Rounding out the year on a Friday, Christmas Day is widely celebrated by the predominantly Christian population. The holiday provides another long weekend opportunity as 2026 draws to a close.
Planning Tips for 2026
Several holidays in 2026 create advantageous long weekends for travel and leisure. For instance, New Year’s Day falls on Thursday, allowing a four-day weekend with Friday off. Similarly, Labour Day on Friday, May 1, combines with the weekend for extended rest. Christmas Day on Friday also provides a natural long weekend to end the year.
Consequently, travelers should book accommodations early around these peak periods, as hotels and transportation fill quickly. For accurate scheduling across time zones, check current local times when coordinating international calls or meetings during holiday periods.
Business professionals should note that government offices, banks, and most commercial establishments close on these holidays. Therefore, plan important transactions, document submissions, and meetings accordingly. For more detailed planning guidance, explore our comprehensive guides section covering various scheduling and time management topics.
Moveable Holidays: Islamic Observances
The two Islamic holidays—Eid al-Fitr (March 20) and Eid al-Adha (May 27)—are approximate dates based on lunar calendar calculations. However, final confirmation depends on moon sighting by religious authorities, so dates may shift by one or two days. These holidays honor the Muslim community within the Central African Republic’s diverse population.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which holidays are recognized nationwide in Central African Republic?
All 14 holidays listed in the table above are officially recognized nationwide across the Central African Republic. These were established by Decree 96-156 in 1996 and apply uniformly across all regions. The government has authority to declare additional holidays, and has recently incorporated two Islamic observances that were previously not part of the official calendar.
Which holidays create long weekends in 2026?
Several holidays in 2026 offer extended weekend opportunities. New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1) combines with Friday for a four-day weekend. Labour Day (Friday, May 1) creates a three-day weekend naturally. Christmas Day (Friday, December 25) also provides a long weekend to conclude the year. Additionally, when Barthelemy Boganda Day (Sunday, March 29) and All Saints Day (Sunday, November 1) fall on weekends, some employers may provide substitute holidays on the following Monday, though this varies by organization.
Are any holidays subject to change?
The fixed-date holidays remain consistent year to year based on the Gregorian calendar. However, Islamic holidays—Eid al-Fitr (Korité) and Eid al-Adha (Tabaski)—depend on lunar calendar observations and moon sighting confirmations, so their exact dates may shift by a day or two from the projected dates listed. Religious authorities announce these dates closer to the actual observance. The government also retains authority under Decree 96-156 to declare additional one-time or recurring holidays as needed.
Is General Prayer Day a religious holiday?
General Prayer Day on June 30 is officially non-denominational, although the Central African Republic’s population is approximately 90% Christian and 60% Protestant. This unique holiday encourages citizens of all faiths to engage in prayer and reflection for the nation’s prosperity and peace.
Do businesses close on all public holidays?
Yes, government offices, banks, and most businesses close on all official public holidays. Essential services like hospitals, security forces, and some transportation services maintain operations. Retail establishments in tourist areas or major cities may have limited hours, but most commercial activity ceases. Consequently, plan essential errands and transactions outside these dates.
Stay Informed About Holiday Changes
While this guide provides accurate information based on official government sources and established holiday calendars, it’s always wise to verify dates closer to your planned activities. Religious holidays, particularly Islamic observances, may shift slightly based on moon sighting confirmations. Government announcements occasionally declare additional commemorative holidays or substitute days when holidays fall on weekends.
For the most current information and to coordinate schedules across different countries and time zones, utilize reliable resources like our time and date tools. Proper planning ensures you make the most of these holidays while avoiding schedule conflicts.
Conclusion
Understanding the Central African Republic’s public holiday calendar for 2026 empowers better planning for work, travel, and personal commitments. With 14 official nationwide holidays spanning cultural, religious, and national celebrations, there are ample opportunities throughout the year for rest, reflection, and celebration. The strategic placement of several holidays creates long weekends that many residents eagerly anticipate.
Bookmark this page and check back regularly for any updates. For related resources on managing time effectively and planning around global events, explore our collection of articles and tools. Whether you’re a resident, business professional, or traveler, staying informed about public holidays helps you navigate the year smoothly and respectfully honor the nation’s diverse traditions.